Editing Frank Rizzo (section)

== Early Life and Police Career ==

Frank Lazzaro Rizzo was born in South Philadelphia to Italian immigrant parents, growing up in the tight-knit ethnic neighborhood that would form the base of his political support. He joined the Philadelphia Police Department in 1943, rising through ranks during a career marked by aggressive tactics and controversial incidents. His imposing physical presence—he stood over six feet tall and was known for physical confrontations—contributed to a tough-guy image that defined his public persona.<ref name="pastore"/>

As he advanced through police leadership, Rizzo cultivated relationships with reporters and politicians while building reputation as a fearless crime fighter. His willingness to personally participate in raids and confrontations generated publicity that raised his profile beyond typical police leadership. By the time he became Police Commissioner in 1967, Rizzo was already a prominent public figure with political ambitions.<ref name="pastore"/>